The Shadi dike paddy field agricultural system in Qidong, Nantong has been recognized as an important agricultural heritage item by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. [Photo/WeChat account: qdrmt0513]

In order to preserve and protect farming culture and boost rural cultural revitalization, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs organized the excavation and identification of the sixth batch of important Chinese agricultural heritage items.

The Shadi dike paddy field agricultural system in Qidong, a county-level city administered by Nantong in East China's Jiangsu province, was recently recognized as an important agricultural heritage item, making it the only such item in Nantong.

The system was planned, designed and constructed by Zhang Jian (1853-1926), a local industrial magnate and scholar. Located in Banchang village, Haifu town in Qidong, the system has been well-preserved up to now.

The Shadi dike paddy field agricultural system was formed as Qidong transformed the saline-alkali land to develop agriculture and preserved to this day. It is mainly used for preventing incoming sea tides, improving saline land, crop cultivation, animal husbandry, and aquaculture. The system also plays a major role in promoting biodiversity.